Leonardo Bonucci was also linked with a move to the Premier League last summer.

Leonardo Bonucci has been a star player for Juventus in recent yearsReuters

Former Chelsea star Michael Ballack has backed Leonardo Bonucci's acquisition from Juventus, saying it's "brilliant" for the west London club.

Antonio Conte took charge of the Blues earlier in the summer after stepping down from his Italy post after the end of the Euro 2016. The former Serie A manager wanted to strengthen his back four, especially with the injury to Kurt Zouma, who is nearing his return and also John Terry edging towards his twilight of his career.

Bonucci was a target for Chelsea in the back four, while Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly was also wanted at Stamford Bridge. However, neither of the deals took shape and Conte ended in re-signing David Luiz returned to the Premier League from Paris Saint-Germain.

"If it is possible to sign such a great player with good experience, it would be brilliant for Chelsea," Ballack told talkSPORT.

The Italian international has been linked with a move to Chelsea in the January transfer window for a reported fee of £60m, according to the Evening Standard. It should be seen whether the English side can manage to secure Bonucci's signature.

Chelsea have struggled in the league in recent times, suffered defeats at the hands of Liverpool and Arsenal. Ballack believes his former club bounce back and ruled out the suggestion that the Blues are finished, if they fail to finish in top four this season.

"You see how much money other teams spend - everyone wants to win the league - and I know from the past how difficult it is to win the Premier League.

"Chelsea is a team which had a great time a few years ago and they're looking for great success.

"The place they finished last year was not enough for them and they have different targets, but they have to deliver. There has to be a change with the new coach in terms of playing, the style of play and delivering results, so hopefully it's a better season for them now."